Travel the Mining Trail

Head inland on the Peak Downs Highway, where the vivid red soil of the outback contrasts with the ‘black gold’ extracted from the region’s coal mines. The Mining Trail provides an insight into one of Australia’s main export industries while also showcasing some surprisingly scenic vistas.

Journey Details

Duration

Distance

12 Hours

350 Kilometres

Activities

Connect with us

Journey Map

Full itinerary

Mackay to Nebo

Mackay to Mt Britton: Visit the abandoned mining town of Mt Britton, a 35 minute drive north-east of Nebo. Only remnants are left of what was once a thriving gold mining town. The Isaac Regional Council maintains markers on the original streets, and displays historic photographs on information boards to give you a glimpse of the town in the 1880s.

Mt Britton to Lake Elphinstone: Explore further along the Suttor Development Road to Lake Elphinstone, a popular destination for camping, fishing and water sports.

Head back to the Peak Downs Highway and make your way to the historic town of Nebo.

The heritage-listed pub next to Nebo Creek is the ideal location to spend a night or stop for a meal. A walking trail alongside the creek displays information boards to give insight into Nebo's colourful past. The Nebo Museum is also well worth a visit.

Nebo to Moranbah

As you follow the Peak Downs Highway to Moranbah, stop at the small mining town of Coppabella. Recognised for its large mining monument at the entrance of the town, Coppabella was designed to service the junction of two railway lines, one from Goonyella Mine and the other from Saraji Mine.

As you arrive in Moranbah, follow the one-kilometer Federation Walk at the town's entrance, near the distinguishable monument, the Big Red Rhino Bucket, a representation of Moranbah's mining heritage.

Moranbah is a well-established town with an attractive town square and an abundance of accommodation and dining options.

Moranbah to Clermont

As you drive toward Clermont, Peak Range National Park is ruggedly beautiful and one of the best locations to witness an intense golden sunset. Wolfang Peak, at 572 metres, is one of the most popular peaks of the range and takes approximately one hour to summit.

Gold was discovered in Clermont in 1861, and ever since, the town has found prosperity in precious metals, coal and agriculture. However it has also suffered from its fair share of tragedy, including devastating floods.

Visit the Clermont Historical Centre, located two kilometres north of Clermont. It displays more than 8000 artefacts reflecting the dramatic history of the town, from tragedy to prosperity.

After learning about Clermont’s turbulent history, visit the memorial that marks the height of the 1916 floodwaters on the corner of Capricorn and Drummond Street as well as the iconic 'piano in a tree' across the road from the memorial marker.

20 kilometres south-west of Clermont, discover the oasis in the dessert of Theresa Creek Dam. An angler’s paradise; golden perch, jewfish, barramundi and red claw can all be found. Camping is permitted here for a small fee.

Explore the region

Note: Information on listed products and services are provided by the operator and were correct at the time of publishing. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD).